Family Nature Exploration: Macroinvertebrates (aka Water Bugs)
2023-07-23 15:00 - 17:00 (America/Detroit) | Hessel School House – Avery Arts & Nature Learning Center, 3206 West Cedar Street, Hessel, MI, 49745, United States
Come explore the underwater world of aquatic bugs, also known as macroinvertebrates. These tiny vertebrates what are visible to the naked eye are crucial food sources for larger animals and an excellent indicator of stream health. Young naturalists will view many examples while we learn about their unique qualities. Afterwards we will do a special nature-based craft project with Mrs. Gordon. All materials are included. $5.00 per person.
REGISTER ONLINE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/641590062147

This class is offered at a discount thanks to funding from The Americana Foundation, Michigan Arts & Culture Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Foraging for Wild Mushrooms
2023-07-26 09:30 - 12:30
Let’s take a walk in the woods with avid mushroom guide James Watterworth to learn about Michigan’s native wild mushrooms!
In this workshop, you will learn how to forage Michigan’s favorite edible fungi. Examples will be available for a hands on experience in learning how to identify their key characteristics. Participants may also bring samples for identification and additional information.
Class Fee: $35*
Space is limited for this class. Please register online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/612512610707
* Thanks to a grant from The Americana Foundation and the Chippewa Luce Mackinac Conservation District, this workshop is being offered at a significant discount to help connect people with nature.

Perennial Gardening Design with Native Plants
2023-08-15 18:00 - 20:00
Join Chippewa Luce Mackinac Conservation District at the Hessel School House Tuesday, August 15 from 6:00-8:00 PM as we host David Spieser from Habitat Landscape Inc. to learn about perennial gardening and design using native plants and wildflowers. This event is free and open to the public.
For more information, contact https://www.clmcd.org/

Family Nature Exploration: Time For Turtles
2023-08-20 15:00 - 17:00
Ubiquitous and slow-moving, turtles are among Michigan’s most easy-to-study animals. This family exploration time introduces young naturalists to the biology of turtles in a fun and exciting way – through a combination of hands-on science and art. $5.00 per person. Pre-register online.
REGISTER ONLINE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/641601727037
This class is offered at a discount thanks to funding from The Americana Foundation, Michigan Arts & Culture Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

CANCELLED - Bim Willow Furniture Workshop
2023-08-26 09:00 - 18:00
The Bim Willow Furniture Workshop has been CANCELLED for this year and will not be rescheduled. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Come learn how to create a stunning piece of furniture with natural materials. Many of the pieces to choose from are historic Americana designs. Noted furniture builder Bim Willow will teach you how to create your one-of-a-kind table, chair, bench, or other furniture piece from start to finish. Completed projects will be ready to take home within the times estimated, which are based on no building experience.
Students are required to bring a hammer (8 oz is best for willow working; 16 oz hammer to build the frame) and pruning shears. A limited number of loppers and wire cutters will be available to share, but students should bring theirs if they have them. The piece of furniture you build will determine if you will have a morning or afternoon session. See worksheet below for available styles, prices and class times.
Class must be booked in advance. Students are required to choose their project no later than one week before class so the appropriate materials can be collected. Class sizes are limited.

Intro to Foraging Wild Mushrooms
2023-09-07 18:00 - 20:00
Mushroom foraging is a becoming a popular pursuit in Michigan. Come learn about the biology and key features of mushrooms and what to look for when identifying these friendly fungi. Avid mushroom enthusiast Bonni Thoresen will cover the many edible mushrooms commonly found in Michigan so you can feel more confident in identifying wild mushrooms you might come across on a hike, in your own backyard, or at your favorite farmers market. Participants are encouraged to bring fungi specimens. Please harvest the entire mushroom, dug out of soil, duff or wood. Transport them in paper bags or loosely wrapped in waxed paper—do not use plastic bags that promote rotting.
Bonni will present a colorful PowerPoint on mushrooms of Northern Michigan including many edible species. However, she advises no one should eat any fungus that does not have solid identification verified by an expert. This program is a starting point and serious foragers would have to put in a lot time and study to really know the kingdom of fungi!
Class size is limited. To register, call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/675964426797
About the Presenter
Bonni Thoresen joined San Diego Mycological Society 25 years ago after becoming fascinated by fungi in the mountains of northern Baja California, Mexico. SDMS offered a lot of educational opportunities but the region is very arid and mushrooming can be limited. The greatest factor in furthering interest in mycology was inheriting her mother’s cottage near DeTour. She spent 5 months there studying EUP fungi in 2003 followed by annual visits since then. Bonni retired from 40 years of nursing in 2018.

CREATING the Northern Lights
2023-09-08 18:00 - 20:00
The Northern Lights have captured the imaginations of cultures for generation. To catch a sight of the lights is to witness something so surreal, so beautiful that it seems to border on the supernatural. Come celebrate this magnificent phenomenon in art, observation and photography during the Northern Lights Weekend, September 8 & 9, 2023 at the Hessel School House in Hessel, Michigan.
CREATE the Northern Lights with Pastels
Friday, September 8 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
The northern lights (aurora borealis) are a breathtaking atmospheric phenomenon that people travel great distances to witness. The beautiful dancing lights have captivated people for millennia. In this evening art event, participants will create their own version of the majestic lights using pastels on black paper. Karen Mazzoline will provide instruction on creating this magical work of art in pastels. No prior experience with pastels is required.
Seating for the art class is limited. Cost is $40 per student and includes all materials, instruction, and light refreshments.
TO REGISTER, call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/666110252697

Cancelled-Fall Forest Bathing
2023-09-09 10:30 - 12:00
Come experience the transformative energy and beauty of fall with the practice of forest bathing. Different then other nature connection experiences such as hiking and birdwatching, forest bathing follows the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku which invites you to slow down and mindfully connect with nature through all of your senses. Give your body and mind a chance to rest and restore while taking in the subtleties and wonder of nature. Your experience will include a guided sensory awakening meditation followed by a series of explorational invitations and conclude with time for sharing around a campfire and tea.
The walk will take place outside in nature so please dress appropriately for the conditions. Participants are encouraged to bring their own portable chair or stool to sit on during the meditation. Class Fee: $35.00.

Botanical Printing Class (Shawl)
2023-09-09 11:00 - 15:00
Learn the beautiful art of botanical printing! In this four-hour workshop led by instructor Diane Keighley, you’ll gain an understanding of how to work with foraged leaves as you explore the process of bundle printing. Each student will leave with a printed shawl (approx.24 x 76″) and the know-how to design and create more pieces on your own.
Class fee of $55 includes instruction and all the necessary supplies and materials. No prior experience necessary – beginners welcome!
Class size is limited. Register early.
REGISTER ONLINE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/596031244497

CHASING the Northern Lights
2023-09-09 18:00 - 19:30
The Northern Lights have captured the imaginations of cultures for generation. To catch a sight of the lights is to witness something so surreal, so beautiful that it seems to border on the supernatural. Come celebrate this magnificent phenomenon in art, observation and photography during the Northern Lights Weekend, September 8 & 9, 2023 at the Hessel School House in Hessel, Michigan.
CHASING the Northern Lights
Saturday, September 9 from 6:00 – 7:30 PM
Join Melissa F. Kaelin, the founder of the Michigan Aurora Chasers and author of “Below the 45th Parallel,” to discover what it takes to view the Northern Lights in the Great Lakes region. This program will explain how Aurora is created and the best methods for predicting an Aurora display, while sharing tools and techniques you can use to realize your dream of catching the Northern Lights. Registration fee is $25.
TO REGISTER call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/666110252697

PRESENTER BIO:
Melissa F. Kaelin is a writer, artist, and stargazer who finds inspiration in the Northern Lights. A published journalist and science communications writer, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. She is native to rural Ohio, and she spent her formative years with nonfiction and creative writing in Minnesota, where she lived for 11 years. She moved to Michigan in 2018. She loves dogs, nature and adventure, and she devotes her time to chasing the Aurora.
In 2021, Melissa founded the Michigan Aurora Chasers, a group devoted to catching the Northern Lights that has grown to over 70,000 members since its inception. She has helped hundreds of people catch the Aurora for the first time, inspiring many others along the way. She is also one of the co-founders of the Aurora Summit: Celebrating the Art, Culture, Science and Photography of the Northern Lights. Melissa has been a featured presenter on the Northern Lights at many venues including the Upper Peninsula Dark Sky festival in 2023.

CAPTURING the Northern Lights
2023-09-09 20:00 - 21:30
The Northern Lights have captured the imaginations of cultures for generation. To catch a sight of the lights is to witness something so surreal, so beautiful that it seems to border on the supernatural. Come celebrate this magnificent phenomenon in art, observation and photography during the Northern Lights Weekend, September 8 & 9, 2023 at the Hessel School House in Hessel, Michigan.
CAPTURE the Northern Lights – Night sky photography workshop

Saturday, September 9 from 8:00 – 9:30 PM
During this workshop, noted photographer and educator Nate Bett will teach you how to capture the beauty of the northern lights and the night sky on camera. The workshop is geared toward those who would like to learn about night sky photography techniques, however is open to all skill levels. Participants will leave the workshop with a better understanding of the basics of getting artistic, well-exposed night photographs of northern lights and the milky way. Topics include equipment needed, camera settings, and the ideal locations for capturing the night sky. With the information garnered from the workshop, it will make stargazing more enjoyable. Following the presentation, participants are invited to go outside, weather permitting, for hands-on experience.
Workshop fee is $35 per person. Space is limited so register early.
TO REGISTER, call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/666110252697

About the presenter
Nate Bett is a photographer and educator in Hancock, Michigan. Although originally from Marquette, Michigan, Nathan recently relocated to Hancock from New York City, where he taught at the City University Of New York, and represented a major camera manufacturer as a technical specialist in photography. He now spends his time indulging in the over abundance of natural beauty in his native UP and spending excesses of time outdoors with his family. Nate maintains a passion for photography and the outdoors that he delights in sharing with students. His work can be viewed at nathanbett.com and @natebett and @artmonstermedia on Instagram.

Photo by Nate Bett.

CANCELLED - Handmade Paper Houseplants
2023-09-22 18:30 - 20:30
Join us on September 22, 2023, at 6:30 PM for a fun-filled evening where we’ll teach you how to craft adorable handmade paper houseplants! Part nature, part art, your paper plant will brighten any corner of your home. This art class includes leaf patterns, paper, paint, wire, and step-by-step instructions to create the sweet potato vine plant. You will also learn how to arrange the leaf stems in a provided container. Class size is limited. Register early. $40 per person.

CANCELLED - Family Nature Exploration - We're Nuts About Seed
2023-09-23 10:00 - 12:00
Dive into the magical world of seeds during this interactive family event and learn why seeds are so important through hands on activities. We will take a close look at seeds, do a seed scavenger hunt and create works of art with seeds. It will be a fun time for all ages. $5.00 per person.

This event is offered at a discount thanks to support from The Americana Foundation.

CANCELLED - Ikebana Workshop
2023-09-23 13:00 - 15:00
Have you ever wanted learn the ancient art of Ikebana Japanese flower arrangement?
Join Dolly Smith, member of Ikebana International Organization of Traverse City, for a two-hour hands-on workshop to learn this traditional craft. Dolly will demonstrate and assist you in making a beautiful seasonal Ikebana arrangement.
In Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging, blossoms, branches, leaves, and stems find new life as materials for art making. In contrast to the western habits of casually placing flowers in a vase, Ikebana aims to bring out the inner qualities of flowers and other live materials and express emotion. This workshop will focus on 2 variations of Ikebana called Ikenobo Moribana and Ikenobo Free Style, as well as skill building.
Each participant will get to take home a completed arrangement. Includes all flower materials, and kenzan (needle holder). A container will be supplied, however you may bring a low flat bowl container (approx. 9″ wide by 2″ deep) that is round, rectangle or oval if you choose. Dolly will choose a floral arrangement design for the class based on the available materials of the season. Student will need to bring floral clippers, pruning shears, and a low box to take your arrangement home in.

Instructor Bio
Dolly Smith has been studying Ikebana for over 20 years and has received the level of Ikenobo/Junkakyo Instructor 3rd Grade. She lives in Traverse City Michigan and is the current President of Traverse City Ikebana International Chapter #165. Images below are examples of Dolly’s work.

Ikebana (生花) means living flowers.

Black Ash Basket Making Workshop (2 Full Days-Sept 28 & 29)
2023-09-28 10:00 - 16:00
Join us Thursday and Friday, September 28 & 29 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for a hands-on Black Ash Basket Making Workshop! Discover the art of weaving beautiful baskets using traditional techniques.

Your instructors Josh and Sarah Homminga, owners of From Log to Basket.
During this 2-day workshop, you will learn the intricate process of creating stunning baskets from black ash splints. Our experienced instructors Josh and Sarah Homminga will guide you through each step from preparing the materials to weaving the basket. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, this workshop is perfect for all skill levels.

By the end of the workshop, you’ll have your very own handcrafted black ash basket to take home and cherish. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn a traditional craft and create something unique.

Class is $175 per person and includes all materials, instruction and lunch for both days.

To register, call 906-484-1333 or click here to REGISTER ONLINE.

(Basket shown is an example and may vary from the actual project.)
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTORS:
Josh and Sarah Homminga are black ash basket makers. Josh is a member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe and Sarah is a Bay Mills Indian Community member, they reside in Bay Mills, Michigan.
Josh grew up leaning the art of black ash basketry, as this art has been passed down within generations of his family. Josh didn’t take a real interest until his great aunt and uncle, Bernadette & Roger Azevedo, made a statement that had an impact on him. They stated that they were afraid that no one in the family will keep this art alive. They taught workshops for many years and were worried that no one has truly learned the process and carry it on. Josh took their words to heart and decided to continue learning and sharing this art.
In 2012, Josh and Sarah started dating, during this time, Josh started teaching Sarah the process of black ash basketry, starting with the harvesting and then how to process the log to make the materials for a basket. Sarah was fascinated by the whole process It is something very unique, the thought that you are able to go into the woods and use a natural resource and with a little work, transform it into something absolutely beautiful.
This is a laborious process, as you have to pound the layers off the log, split the layers into individual strips, then scrape those strips smooth, once they are smoothed and we have the desired thickness of the strip ready, we then start making/cutting our bottoms (structure/ribs of the basket) and our ribbon (weavers), which are going to be thinner than the bottoms. We then choose colors, we use Rit fabric dye, and we are ready to assemble our basket.
Josh and Sarah were married in 2019 and together have 5 children. They both held “corporate positions” for many years before deciding to pursue basket making full time. They have facilitated many workshops and have traveled throughout Michigan, Canada, Minnesota and Wisconsin. They enjoy sharing and teaching the process of basket making. Recently this year, they were honored to have their baskets given to President Joe Biden, First Lady, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and Deb Haaland as gifts. They take pride in all their work and plan to continue making them. This art has allowed Josh and Sarah to provide for their family and they are able to share their knowledge with others.
In addition to making baskets, Josh has also made hats, these hats are worn by traditional dancers, this is another accomplishment that they are both proud of. Their work can be viewed on their facebook page. www.facebook.com/fromlogtobasket

Introduction to Permaculture
2023-10-14 09:00 - 12:00
Introduction to Permaculture
This event will provide you with a unique opportunity to learn about permaculture principles and practices. Permaculture is all about designing and creating sustainable systems that work harmoniously with nature.
During this half-day, highly informative workshop Eran Rhodzell of Sacred Earth Initiative will guide you through the basics of permaculture, including organic gardening, water conservation, and regenerative agriculture. You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about sustainable living.
Whether you’re a beginner or already familiar with permaculture, this event is open to everyone interested in making a positive impact on the environment. Mark your calendars and get ready to embark on an inspiring journey towards a more sustainable future!
Workshop Fee: $15.00 per person.
To register, call 906-484-1333 or click here to REGISTER ONLINE.
This workshop is offered at a discount thanks to the support of the Chippewa, Luce, Mackinac Conservation District and The Americana Foundation.
Presenter Eran Rhodzell with his two girls.
ABOUT THE PRESENTER
Eran Rhodzell is the founder of Sacred Earth Initiative an organization dedicated to bring about social and environmental transformation and healing through education, advocacy, and implementation of low-maintenance, high-yielding, nature-based edible and medicinal landscapes on both macro and micro levels. Eran graduated from Evergreen State College in Olympia, Washington with a degree in Sustainable Agriculture. He spent a decade living and working on many different organic farms in locations ranging from Kauai to California to Nova Scotia, before settling on the 68 acres he now calls home in rural Benzie County, Michigan.

Weave a Barrel-style Bird Feeder
2023-10-14 13:00 - 16:00
Come join us for an afternoon of creativity, relaxation, and connecting with nature while you wave your very own barrel-style bird feeder! This hands-on event is perfect for bird enthusiasts. Learn the art of weaving while creating a beautiful and functional bird feeder to attract feathered friends to your backyard. Cheryl Gordon will guide you through the steps of creating a unique bird feeder. No prior weaving experience is required, making this event suitable for beginners and seasoned crafters alike. Space is limited and typically fills quickly so be sure to register early. $50 per person included instruction and all materials to make a bird feeder.
Register by calling 906-484-1333 or click here to REGISTER ONLINE.

CANCELLED - Let's Have a Bat Chat - Family Nature Exploration
2023-10-21 10:00 - 12:00
Let’s Have a Bat Chat – Family Nature Exploration
Join us for an exciting and educational adventure during our Family Nature Exploration event – “Let’s Have a Bat Chat”. Get ready to delve into the fascinating world of bats and discover their incredible abilities.
Come explore the hidden lives of bats through an engaging presentation and interactive activities. Learn about their unique behaviors, the importance of their role in the ecosystem, and the various species that inhabit our surroundings. We will shed some light on their remarkable adaptations, such as echolocation, and gain a deeper understanding of their significance in maintaining a balanced environment.
Pre-registration is required. Class fee is $5.00 per person.
This class is offered at a discount thanks to a grant from The Americana Foundation.

CANCELLED - Leaf Printing
2023-10-21 13:00 - 15:00
Come join us for Leaf Printing on Saturday, October 21 from 1-3 PM. You will add dimension using color, texture, and space on a 10-inch circle. Leaves and other materials will be provided, but if you have a favorite leaf, bring it! Come enjoy the process and the company as vou create your own leaf abstract print! No prior experience is necessary, artist Karen Mazzoline will guide you through the process and all materials will be provided. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for a fun activity, this event is perfect for anyone of any age. Bring your friends, coworkers, or even come alone and make new friends! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with nature and unleash your artistic side. Mark your calendars and join us for an unforgettable afternoon.

Class is $40 per person. Register by calling 906-484-1333 or click her to REGISTER ONLINE .

The Schooner Huron Jewel - Dream Inspiration Tour
2023-11-04 13:00 - 15:00
LECTURE SERIES
Travel with Captain Hugh and Julie Covert as they recall the highlights of their voyage through the Great Lakes to the Eastern Seaboard, south to Florida and the Bahamas, and back. This summer they completed their 9700+ nautical mile journey aboard the Schooner Huron Jewel, a 78 foot, two-masted gaff rigged schooner that was designed and built by the couple at their home port of Drummond Island. Come enjoy their amazing adventure to inspire others to live their dream.
This presentation is free and open to the public. Please reserve your seat by calling 906-484-1333 or reserving your seat online to ensure we have room for this popular program.

Foraging for Wild Herbs
2023-11-04 15:00 - 17:00
Foraging for Wild Herbs
Join us for an exciting adventure of exploring the bountiful world of wild herbs! This event is perfect for nature enthusiasts and those interested in discovering the hidden treasures of the wilderness.
During this event we’ll learn how to identify various wild herbs, their medicinal properties, and their culinary uses. Throughout the event, Sierra LaRose will share fascinating anecdotes and tips on sustainable foraging practices, teach you how to harvest herbs responsibly ensuring the preservation of these natural resources for generations to come.
Whether you’re a seasoned forager or simply curious about the world of wild herbs, this event promises to be an educational and enriching experience. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with nature and expand your knowledge of herbal treasures!
Class Fee: $20 per person.
To register, call 906-484-1333 or REGISTER ONLINE.
This class is being offered at a discount thanks to a grant from the Chippewa Luce Mackinac Conservation District.

Living Off the Land in Alaska with Pete Griffin
2023-11-11 13:00 - 14:30
Pete Griffin is the author of Stories of a Forest Ranger and Rafts, Raccoons, and Revelations. Signed copies of these books will be available at the presentation.
Alaskans living off the land is a romantic notion that is much more difficult than what one is led to believe. Pete Griffin, speaker, storyteller, naturalist, and retired Forest Service Ranger will visit the Hessel School House on Saturday, November 11 at 1:00 PM to deliver personal stories, photos, and short videos about living off the land in Alaska. This free presentation is part of the Connecting with Nature lecture series made possible by a grant from The Americana Foundation.
To reserve your seat for this special presentation, call the Hessel School House at 906-484-1333 or register online.

ABOUT THE PRESENTER:
Pete Griffin was born in a two-room log cabin with no running water just southeast of Cedarville in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula–within a hundred yards of the Lake Huron shoreline. When his dad returned home from the Army in 1953, the small family moved from cabin to cabin in the Eastern U.P. as his Dad followed work opportunities. Young Pete spent a lot of time exploring in the woods and along the shores of the St. Mary’s River and Lake Huron inventing imaginary friends when he had no one to play with.
With few exceptions, Pete’s formative years through age 23 were spent in the immediate vicinity of that little corner of Lake Huron. Water formed an important aspect of his life, whether fishing for trout in the many small creeks that emptied into the big lake or fishing for perch and herring in the protected bays and channels of the Les Cheneaux Islands.
Pete says, “My family, my parents, aunts and uncles, and my grandparents did not seem out of the ordinary as I grew up. But I came to find they all had their own stories, unique stories that all too often I discovered all too late in life.”
An introvert, he felt most comfortable on his own out in the woods or on the water rather than with others. A career in the woods made sense to him, a job where he could be alone all day and never have to talk to another person. Griffin enrolled in a wildlife biology program at nearby Lake Superior State College in Sault Ste Marie. I was graduated in 1974 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology.
Following graduation in 1974, he was hired by the US Forest Service on the Huron-Manistee National Forest in Lower Michigan. In 1987Pete transferred to the Chippewa National Forest in Minnesota with his wife, Kathy, and thjeir two young children. In 1992, we left the Midwest for Ketchikan, Alaska. In 1999 Pete was selected as the Juneau District Ranger in Alaska’s state capital.
Griffin began Tongass Trails, a weekly five-minute natural history essay on public radio that ran several years in Juneau. In these essays, Pete included his experiences and observations from younger years growing up on the shores of Lake Huron. It was that personal touch, the short anecdotes included in the recordings that captured the listeners’ imaginations and Griffin was awarded the D. Robert Hakala Excellence in Interpreter and Conservation Education Award by the Forest Service in 2006.
Griffin retired in June 2010, concluding a 35-year career as wildlife biologist and ranger.

Stovetop Natural Dyes
2023-11-18 13:00 - 16:00
In this class, we will explore how to use natural dye at home using kitchen waste or dyestuff foraged from the environment. Participants will learn about the mordanting process and how to get the best color from natural dyes. We will also utilize Shibori techniques to create surface design before dyeing. Students will leave with a beautifully personal naturally dyed silk scarf and expanded knowledge of the craft.
*Participants should dress for mess and bring their own rubber gloves, aprons, and a plastic bag to transport dyed items.
Class size is limited to 12 students.
$60 per student.
TO REGISTER: Call 906-484-1333 or register online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/678089051607
This program is offered at a discount thanks to a grant from The Americana Foundation, Michigan Arts & Culture Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Winter Forest Bathing Experience
2024-01-27 10:00 - 11:30
RESCHEDULED DATE
Whether you’re looking for a way to beat the winter blues, keep your new year’s resolution to improve your health, or simply looking for opportunities to meet new people you will enjoy winter forest bathing.
Come experience the transformative energy and beauty of winter with the practice of forest bathing. Different then other nature connection experiences such as hiking and birdwatching, forest bathing follows the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku which invites you to slow down and mindfully connect with nature through all of your senses.
Benefits of Forest Bathing:

Lowers stress.
Decreases blood pressure and cortisol levels.
Promotes relaxation.
Enhances mindfulness and psychological well-being.
Improves attention, mood, and creativity.

Give your body and mind a chance to rest and restore while taking in the subtleties and wonder of nature. Certified instructor, Maureen Stine, will guide you through a sensory awakening meditation followed by a series of explorational invitations and conclude with time for sharing around a campfire and tea.
The walk will take place outside in nature so please dress appropriately for the conditions. Participants are encouraged to bring their own portable chair or stool to sit on during the meditation. Space is limited so register early.
Class Size: Min. 6 / Max. 15
Class Fee: $20.00
Thanks to a grant from The Americana Foundation we are able to offer this class at a discount. Class is usually $35 per person.

Nature Soup - An all sensory nature experience for children
2024-01-27 13:00 - 15:00
Nature Soup is a captivating and immersive nature experience designed specifically for children 1st – 5th grade. This 2-hour experience will be held on Saturday, January 27 from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. at Hessel School House. This event combines hands-on activities and sensory exploration to ignite student’s curiosity about the natural world. Starting with the creation of a plaster tracks from rubber molds. We then engage their sense of touch and observation using animal pelts. Then we delve into the fascinating world of wildlife ‘imprinting’ by exploring various scents and learning how animals rely on their sense of smell. With Nature Soup, children can dive deep into the wonders of nature, fostering a love and appreciation for the environment around them.
This class will be taught by Maureen Stine, owner and educator of Naturology. To learn more about this organization, visit https://natureology.me.
Appropriate Ages: 1st – 5th grade students
Class Size: min. 4 / max. 16
Class Fee: $15 per student
REGISTER ONLINE or call 906-484-1333 to register and pay by phone.

Snowy Owl Month at Hessel School House
2024-02-02 09:00 - 23:30, 2024-02-03 00:00 - 23:30, 2024-02-04 00:00 - 17:00
Come experience the magic of snowy owls during the month of February
Kick-off Weekend – February 2-4, 2024

Why are we celebrating Snowy Owls (and other winter birds)?
Every year, the National Audubon Society, an organization with the goal of protecting birds and their habitats, takes a survey and bird count of every major region in the state. Over the years, the count found that more snowy owls come to Rudyard and the surrounding area of the Eastern Upper Peninsula more than any other place in the state, and more than most other places throughout the country. Now that’s reason to celebrate!
What is the Snowy Owl Festival?
The Snowy Owl Festival is a month-long celebration that provides a unique opportunity for bird enthusiasts, nature lovers, and the local community to come together and witness the awe-inspiring presence of these magnificent birds. The kick-off weekend, February 2 – 4, 2024 will be filled with various activities and events organized to educate and engage participants. From guided birdwatching tours led by experienced owl watchers, to educational workshops and LIVE owl presentations, attendees have the chance to learn more about the snowy owl’s habitat, behavior, and conservation efforts. Additionally, the celebration showcases the artistic side of snowy owls through art classes for all ages that will showcase the unique beauty and cultural significance of these creatures.
Complete information about each event and registration details can be found below. All events require pre-registration and payment online or by calling 906-484-1333.

Financial support for this event and its many educational opportunities is made possible by the follow organizations.
THANK YOU for your support!

Build a Barred Owl Nesting Box
2024-02-04 13:00 - 17:00
Looking to get closer to nature? Want to help our feathered friends find a cozy home? Then this workshop is perfect for you! Come and learn how to build your very own nesting box for the beautiful Barred Owl.
During this hands-on workshop, Cheryl Gordon will guide you through the process of constructing a sturdy and safe nesting box for these magnificent creatures. You’ll gain valuable knowledge about the nesting habits and requirements of Barred Owls, ensuring your box is the perfect fit. You will be using the Audubon approved Rob Bierregaard design, a one family home with plenty of room for the youngsters and easy access for adults.
Whether you’re a bird enthusiast, nature lover, or simply enjoy DIY projects, this workshop is suitable for all skill levels. We will be using precut cedar boards, screws, and drills to create the nesting boxes and hanging instructions will be provided. If you have a screw gun you may want to bring it along as supply will be limited.
Don’t miss this opportunity to make a positive impact on the local owl population while having a great time! Pre-registration is required and we only have a limited number of spots available. Register today!

CANCELLED - Women On Ice: Intro to Ice Fishing
2024-02-17 11:00 - 13:00
Women on Ice – An Introduction to Ice Fishing
Women on Ice is an introduction to ice fishing for women of all ages. Grab your girlfriends and make it an afternoon outing. Maureen Stine, will guide you through the basics of ice fishing from learning how to set a tip up and what to do when the flag goes up, using an auger, understanding a lake map, choosing tackle for perch and panfish vs. tackle for walleye and pike, ice safety and more. Class will start at the Hessel School House for a bit of training before heading out on the ice. Everything you need is included. Since this event is held on a Michigan Free fishing weekend, a fishing license for participants is not required making it the perfect time to try your hand at ice fishing and possibly fall in love with a new winter activity. There is no guarantee that we will catch fish. Hot chocolate and snacks provided. Space is limited to 12 people.
